Guardians Projected as Deadline Buyers Despite Cautious History
Cleveland sits in playoff position amid a weak AL field, setting up a buyer role at the deadline while likely limiting major prospect outflows.
The Guardians entered 2025 leaning on internal development from players like Chase DeLauter, Travis Bazzana, and Parker Messick. Results have been mixed, but a weak American League has kept Cleveland in contention. The team is in a nominal tie with Chicago for the AL Central lead, though the White Sox hold the tiebreaker via head-to-head record. Cleveland is broadly expected to add at the deadline but has historically avoided high-cost, high-profile acquisitions.
More on the Guardians wire.
Mid-Season Ball Change Plus Summer Heat Points to HR Surge
A manufacturing defect reduced drag on MLB baseballs, sending batted balls ~5 feet farther. Warmer summer air compounds the effect, lifting HR expectations leaguewide.
Pedro Avila Heads to KBO After Cleveland Release
The veteran right-hander departs the Guardians organization for South Korea, signing with SSG Landers for the rest of the 2026 season.
Fairchild Elects Free Agency After Clearing Waivers
The Guardians DFA'd the outfielder to make room for top prospect Cooper Ingle, and Fairchild used his service time rights to hit the open market.
MLB Lockout Looms as CBA Set to Expire Dec. 1
A work stoppage is anticipated once the current collective bargaining agreement expires, with legal analysts warning the 2027 season could be at risk.
Justin Campbell Exits Before AAA Debut With Oblique Injury
The Cleveland pitching prospect suffered an oblique injury in warmups, forcing a same-day scratch before he could throw a single pitch in AAA.
Pedro Avila Released by Guardians After Exercising Opt-Out
The right-hander is now a free agent after opting out of his minor league contract with Cleveland for the second time in 2026.